The warm sun filtered through the leaves as I sat with Britney on a wooden bench in the park. The summer air was filled with laughter from nearby children and the distant hum of conversations. Britney took a big bite of her ice cream, her face lighting up with a shy smile as she looked over at me. I could tell she was still getting used to our newfound friendship, but moments like this made it feel natural.

Suddenly, a confident voice called out,

Sophie: “Britney! There you are!”

I looked up to see a striking woman approaching, her red hair gleaming in the sunlight, tied back neatly. Sophie, Britney’s mom, walked with an air of playfulness, her smile warm but her eyes sharp and curious as they met mine.

Britney: “Hi, Mom, This is my new friend.”

Britney said, her tone soft as she wiped a stray drop of melted ice cream from her hand. She glanced at me nervously.

Sophie’s eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief as she extended her hand.

Sophie: “Well, hello. It’s nice to meet you. I hope Britney isn’t keeping you out of trouble.”

her voice both welcoming and teasing.